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Home » Leveraging trade agreements for economic growth in the SADC region (Part 4)

Leveraging trade agreements for economic growth in the SADC region (Part 4)

By Eamonn Ryan

The Southern African Industrialisation Forum hosted a conference on 26–27 February 2024 with a range of panel discussions. This is part four of a six-part article.


A view of the platform with panellists.
A view of the platform with panellists. Image Credit: @Cold Link Africa

The following discussion is titled “Leveraging Trade Agreements for Economic Growth in the SADC Region”, with the following panel members and key stakeholders:

  • Peter Varndell: SADC Business Council Executive Secretary
  • Yavi Madurai: African Prosperity Fund Co-Founder
  • Dr Mustafa Sakr: AUDA-NEPAD Principal Programme Officer: Trade and Markets Unit
  • Ally Alexander Mwangolombe: SADC Secretariat Programme Officer – Customs Procedures
  • Rooma Narrainen: Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry Head Of Advocacy

… continued from part three.

Fostering economic integration: the role of trade policies and initiatives

In the ever-evolving landscape of international trade, a plethora of policies and agreements are shaping the trajectory of economic integration across continents. From industrialisation strategies to tripartite trade agreements and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), governments and stakeholders are forging pathways towards greater co-operation and collaboration.

Philosophically, these initiatives underscore a collective obligation to bring all players to the table, creating a marketplace that transcends borders. But what does this concept of a marketplace entail in practical terms? At its core, it embodies the dissemination of information—empowering businesses with the knowledge they need to navigate diverse markets, seize opportunities and overcome challenges.

The vision behind events like the one convened today is to lay the groundwork for a vibrant marketplace – a place where stakeholders converge to exchange insights, forge partnerships and explore avenues for collaboration. It represents the first step in a journey towards fostering a conducive environment for trade and investment, underpinned by transparency, efficiency and inclusivity.

Central to this vision is the imperative to address trade barriers, enhance trade facilitation, and optimise corridor efficiency. From infrastructure development to streamlining regulatory processes, there is a concerted effort to identify and mitigate bottlenecks that impede the flow of goods and services across borders. By reducing the cost and complexity of trade, stakeholders aim to unlock the full potential of regional and global markets.

While these initiatives may be relatively nascent, they build upon existing frameworks and agreements, serving as a springboard for accelerated progress. Despite being newcomers to the scene, stakeholders are leveraging existing agreements to test innovative solutions and capitalise on political will. Events like the forum convened today represent a pivotal opportunity to engage stakeholders, assess progress and chart a course forward towards deeper economic integration.

As stakeholders continue to collaborate and innovate, the vision of a seamless, interconnected marketplace inches closer to reality. By harnessing the collective expertise and resources at their disposal, governments, businesses and civil society organisations can propel economic integration forward, unlocking new opportunities and driving sustainable growth across the continent and beyond.

Continued in part five…